Olota Warns Ban on Under-18 WAEC, NECO Candidates May Limit Youth Potential
Oba Abdulkabir Obalanlege, the Olota of Ota, has expressed concern that the Federal Government’s proposal to ban under-18 students from sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examinations Council (NECO) exams will stifle the potential of young Nigerians.
Speaking at the 15th Anniversary of Adedokun International Schools in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday, Obalanlege emphasized that preventing under-18 students from taking these exams would hinder their ability to compete globally with their peers.
“My advice to the Federal Government is to adopt international best practices rather than limiting the prospects of our young ones,” the monarch said, urging the government to reconsider the policy.
The proposal was announced by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, on Aug. 25, sparking widespread debate about its implications on the country’s education system.
During the event, Obalanlege congratulated the school’s founder, Mr. Niyi Adedokun, and encouraged him to expand his educational reach across Ogun State. In appreciation, Adedokun presented the Olota with an award for his support in overcoming challenges during the school’s development.
Dr. Mike Fatukasi, the school’s principal, praised the institution’s growth over the past 15 years, noting its ranking as 17th among Nigeria’s top 25 secondary schools.
Also speaking, Mrs. Patience Evans-Osabuohien, Chairperson of the Parents-Teacher Association at the Iyana Campus, called on the Federal Government to reconsider its decision, warning that barring under-18 students from entering universities could lead to an increase in crime as young people are left idle.
The event concluded with awards presented to long-serving staff and individuals who have contributed to the school’s success. Established in 2009, Adedokun International Schools now operates five campuses in Sango-Ota.
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